Feb 23, 2010

While interesting that the Google CEO says mobile first, the statistics in this article along with the discussion of the reach of mobile is fascinating. The old quote "The internet changed everything" is derailed. The internet doesn't necessarily touch the common man...the fisherman in a poor village, the farmer, the construction worker. However, the all have the ability to "go mobile". The reality behind is even more fascinating when you add "mobile money" into the mix. Never before has the average man been able to process payment immediately (of course, other than cash) with just a click and be able to do it ANYWHERE. This could and likely will totally transform commerce as we know it today.

Feb 9, 2010

If only Premier Wen used Linked In, perhaps then I could find a mutual connection and find a way that I can be one of those experts he is welcoming! Amazing how this contradicts so many of the articles I've read recently that state that finding a job in China as a foreigner is becoming increasingly difficult. There is a logical reason behind the claim that fewer foreigners are hired in China: there are just as many, if not more, educated and experienced Chinese capable of performing just about any task, job, or profession especially those in higher tech fields. Why hire an expensive foreigner demanding $80K USD plus (and usually much more) when you can hire an equally talented individual for 80K RMB? The cost savings for hiring the Chinese worker is 700%. It is unthinkable that company would waste such a significant amount of money unless there was a benefit the foreign worker can provide that the Chinese cannot.

Usually, the benefit is out of the box thinking or other "creative" thinking. Although, there have been many successful Chinese entrepreneurs, the typical Chinese worker can tend to stick within the hierarchical paradigm that discourages going against the boss or developing uncommon ideas.

Maybe Premier Wen's announcement will help change/open up the job market to foreigners. I sure hope so given the continuation of my job search.